Jensen - A Highland Adventure

September 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Overview

Join us on a carefully crafted, tailor-made adventure that visits some of Scotland’s most enchanting destinations. From the dark, brooding beauty of Glencoe to the spectacular sea-drenched wilderness of the Isle of Skye, experience the best of this diverse and ancient land. Enjoy a boat trip to the most remote loch in the British Isles and a morning of guided fly-fishing. On chosen days, join a knowledgeable guide for lovely hikes, learning about the history and heritage of the region, as well as looking out for wildlife such as red deer, otters and white-tailed eagles. As the golden evening light spills across the heathery moors, settle into hand-picked accommodation carefully chosen for their delicious food and traditional charm. On a trip designed just for you, enjoy discovering the bewitching beauty of Scotland.

Highlights

  • Meet a local guide to enjoy an unforgettable hike in Scotland's most iconic glen.
  • Discover the elemental, wild beauty of the Isle of Skye.
  • Take a boat trip out to the wild Loch Coruisk, one of the more remote lochs in Scotland.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to Edinburgh

Arrive in the architecturally stunning city of Edinburgh today and settle into your lovely accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to head out and explore the winding alleys and cobblestone streets. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, visiting St Giles’ Cathedral (which has been a working church for over 900 years) and Edinburgh Castle – which offers sweeping views over the city. Visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery or step inside the National Museum on Chambers Street. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Exploring Edinburgh

After a relaxed breakfast, meet a local city guide this morning for a brilliant and engaging walking tour. Where every winding close, gothic spire and tumbling monument is imbued with history, enjoy ribboning your way through the cobbled streets, visiting some of the iconic sights, as well as discovering hidden gems off the tourist trail. After lunch, enjoy another afternoon with free time to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll down to the Waters of Leith, meandering your way along the river to the historic and beautiful Dean Village or choose to walk up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano which is popular with tourists and locals alike. This evening, enjoy dinner in one of Edinburgh’s many award-winning restaurants.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Travel to Fort William

This morning, pick up your hire car and head northwest out of the city towards Glencoe. Your route today takes you through the green hills and deep lochs of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, which means there are plenty of scenic spots that are perfect for a short stroll to stretch your legs. A very scenic drive – take your time as you ribbon your way through the wind-swept, barren beauty of Rannoch Moor – a landscape of blanket bog, small lochans, rushing rivers, and rocky outcrops. Later, arrive in Fort William, nestled in the foothills of Ben Nevis and settle into your hotel and take some time to relax before dinner.

Overnight: Fort William | Inverlochy Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Hiking in Glencoe

Enjoy breakfast before meeting your guide and heading out to explore Glencoe. Carved out centuries ago by glaciers and volcanic eruptions, Glencoe is a spectacular place to hike. With many great options for walking – from climbing towards cloud-snagged summits to winding your way to a hidden meadow –  today will undoubtedly be a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable adventure. As the day fades and light slides down the moor-clad mountains, duck into Clachaig Inn, a traditional climbers’ pub which offers hearty Scottish food, local ales and live music.

Overnight: Fort William | Invelrochy Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Sea Kayaking & Ferry to Skye

A short drive this morning will take you to the beautiful white sandy beaches of Arisaig Sound to go sea-kayaking. Meet your expert guide and head out into the turquoise water to paddle around hundreds of tiny islands, spotting seals, otters, and a host of coastal birds. The seal colony here is friendly and curious, often slipping beneath your boat only to pop up on the other side to peer at you with their big dark eyes. This afternoon, enjoy the beautiful journey to the Isle of Skye. Wind your way through a landscape that shimmers with dark water and where hardy sheep graze amongst the bracken, heather and golden grasses. Your home special home for the final few nights of your trip lies just a short drive from the ferry terminal along the island’s southernmost peninsula.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Wild Loch Coruisk & The Black Cuillin Mountains

Today, enjoy another fantastic day of guided hiking. Head south, arriving in Elgol – a tiny hamlet scattered along the western cliffs of the Strathaird peninsula. From a small jetty, board the charming Bella Jane and sail over Loch Scavaig into the very heart of the Black Cuillin. As the lovely first mate provides some fascinating history about the surrounding islands, look for sleepy seals lounging on the warm rocks. Upon reaching the shore, leave the boat to explore Loch Coruisk (also known as the Cauldron of the Waters), a deep, dark loch that stretches like a shadow below the impressive volcanic peaks. Choose to walk around the loch or climb the rugged mountain of Sgurr na Stri – which is considered by many to offer one of the wildest and most spectacular views in Scotland.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Free Day to Explore the Misty Isle

Today is free for you to do as you wish. If you would like to visit the Fairy Pools, I would recommend heading there early so you explore without the crowds. The path follows a crystal clear stream – broken by rushing waterfalls and deep pools (which are great for a dip if you’re feeling brave). It’s worth asking your hotel for a packed breakfast to take away so you can enjoy this beautiful place in peace. Afterwards, perhaps head to Talisker Bay for a stunning walk along the black sand beach for arresting views of a lonely, salt-stained sea-stack. Later this evening, relax back at your hotel, enjoying another delicious dinner.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Fly Fishing & Free Afternoon

After breakfast, meet Mitchell Partridge from Skye Ghillie and head off the beaten path into the untamed wilderness of Skye. A talented fisherman with a wealth of local knowledge about the landscape and the flora and fauna that call it home, enjoy a morning of bushcraft, fishing and foraging for wild snacks. This afternoon, enjoy some free time. You may like to head to a local beach and brave the breaking waves for a wild swim or instead just relax back at your hotel with a good book and a cup of tea.

Overnight: Isle of Skye | Kinloch Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Eilean Donan Castle & Return to Edinburgh

Travel back to the mainland today and wind your way towards Inverness. Along the way, stop to visit Eilean Donan Castle. Perched on the confluence of three sea lochs, its iconic ruins have become an internationally recognised image of Scotland. Back in the city, drop off your car hire and catch the train back to Edinburgh, where your trip will conclude.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 9
  • Meals as indicated above in the itinerary
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified Wilderness guide on Days 4 and 6
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary;
    • Half day walking tour of Edinburgh with a local city guide
    • Half day sea kayaking in Arisaig
    • Boat trip to Loch Coruisk on the Isle of Skye
    • Half day fly fishing with a local ghillie on the Isle of Skye
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • 24-hour in-country support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Car Hire
  • Travel Insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking
  • A 25% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision

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